LR certifies onboard use of drones

Drone and robotics specialist RIMS (Robotics In Maintenance
Strategies) have received their fourth Classification Certificate as Recognized
External Specialists, from Lloyd’s Register for the use of Remote Inspection
Techniques (drones) during surveys of enclosed spaces. The Lloyd’s
certification adds to RIMS’ CV of class approvals achieved during 2017, adds a
release.

The practical audit was successfully executed on a large
deep-water construction vessel. Prior to the demonstration, drawings of the
tanks were reviewed to establish a flight plan and to indicate specific points
of interest. During the demonstration the drone was able to be successfully
manoeuvred around the tank according to the flight plan, and was able to react
to the instructions of the attending surveyor in real time.

David Knukkel, CEO of RIMS commented on the recent certification
awarded to RIMS: “We are honoured to receive the approval, as these audits are
not easy. Class are setting a high standard, not only to ensure safe operations
during the flight of the drones but more importantly to achieve accurate survey
results. Due to the importance of these surveys, we consider each flight as an
examination and it is up to us to maintain the high standard demonstrated in
class audits.”

The certification means that shipowners and managers now have
the option to avoid the use of costly access equipment such as scaffolding and
cherry pickers during surveys, and instead to use RIMS’ remote live on-screen
object inspection, which offers substantial benefits; reduction in the time to
carry out a survey, minimising of risk, as well as cost savings.

“We were first to gain approval from BV, ABS, RINA and now also
receiving the approval from Lloyds Register, means that the acceptance and use
of drone technology finally breaks through in the Maritime Industry and drones
become a common tool to execute safe and cost-efficient inspections of ships
and MOU constructions.” added Knukkel.